Culture

Bluesfest and Inner Varnika: Here’s what’s happening across Australia this weekend

what's on this weekend

Here comes the long weekend. A rarity in the annual calendar, whether you celebrate Easter or not these four days of freedom are sure to strike joy. Some will no doubt use this time as an excuse to load up on chocolate, and to you we say godspeed. Others have had their bags packed since Monday, anticipating the moment they can dart off to some sweet escape. All we know is that there's a wealth of activities and places to be this long weekend.

Maybe that's a late night feast in Lakemba surrounded by worshippers gathering for Iftar. Or perhaps it looks a weekend swaying to the thumping of live beats at Inner Varnika. Either way, whatever you're seeking you're bound to find it below in our guide to what's on this weekend across Australia. Enjoy!

 

NSW

Attention all lovers of My General Store, the fashion destination is having a pop-up store at Chatswood Chase in case you needed another excuse to shop this weekend.

Groove is in the heart and can be found at Mince OpenAir this weekend in the Domain.

Secure yourself a reservation at the newly opened Topikós Dining Room & Bar in Bondi.

Australia's finest gather in Byron Bay for the annual Bluesfest.

The Islamic holiday Ramadan is here. Head to Lakemba once the sun sets for Ramadan Nights, a street festival that sees hoards of people gather together for Iftar – the period where fasting breaks and feasting begins.

Rīvus, the 23rd Biennale of Sydney is open at a variety of locations across Sydney.

Start your Saturday with breakfast at Fred's.

Make your way over to Darling Square to immerse yourself in Hello Kitty Town. What joy!

Settle in for a night of theatre with Heroes of the Fourth Turning at the Seymour Centre.

 

Victoria

Beg, borrow and steal your way to Inner Varnika festival for a weekend of dancing.

Hamilton has made its way down south to Melbourne.

Swindle a ticket to see Stella Donnelly and friends at Corner Hotel this weekend.

Release some tension and have a laugh at Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

QUEER: Stories from the NGV Collection is on at the National Gallery of Victoria. Why not check it out at NGV Friday Nights as the after hours event returns once more.

 

Queensland

If you need an incentive to clean out your wardrobe, SWOP Brisbane is now buying Autumn clothes.

Hear DMA's croon away at Fortitude Music Hall.

Get to The Tivoli this weekend to see The Simpsons but with a raunchy twist.

Wander over to Lefty's Music Hall for live music and good times.

The Asia Pacific Triennial is open at Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art.

 

ACT

National Folk Festival is arriving in Canberra for its 2022 stint.

Step into the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia to see Australians & Hollywood.

Brace yourself Canberrans, Digi Culture and Music Festival is here.

Spend your afternoon hanging out at Capital Brewing Co.

Hippo Co. are leading one of its famous whisky tastings on Saturday evening at 6pm.

 

South Australia

Don't think just vibe at Touch Bass festival this long weekend.

Wine and Good Times is coming to you this Good Friday.

Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula, starting with these 5 beaches.

Spend Sunday long-lunching at Africola.

 

Western Australia

After a month long hiatus Freo.Social is back. Head down there on Sunday for its Front Yard Sessions.

See Mallrat live at Metro City Concert Club this Saturday eve.

Immerse yourself in First Nations art, culture and conversations at BlakLight hosted by the AGWA.

Catch some live music this Sunday at Fremantle Arts Centre.

Get your dose of laughs in at Oasis Comedy Club.

 

Northern Territory

Parrtjima is bringing ten days of art to the Red Centre with festivities kicking off this weekend.

Catch Barkaa perform in Alice Springs this Sunday evening.

Explore a side of the Territory you haven't seen before with this guide.

Make your way over to Nightcliff Markets for Laksa, pastries, massages, and jewellery.

 

Tasmania

As always, Music at Mona is on this weekend. This time around Vince Jones and Babylon Howl are just some of the acts set to perform.

Salamanca Market is open and calling your name this Saturday.

Road trip your way to any of these magical stays in Tasmania.


If art is on the menu this weekend then take this guide to Australian art in April.

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Images: Instagram